At Oasis Consulting Group we think it is important to highlight companies that are successful and doing good things in their communities, so each Friday we will Feature one company on our Blog and Social Media Pages. 

Check out 10 Facts about Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, and stop by their website, westcoastblacktheatre.org, to check them out.

Address: 1012 N. Orange Ave. Sarasota, FL 34236

Phone Number: (941) 366-1505

Instagram Account: @westcoastblacktheatretroupe

Website: westcoastblacktheatre.org

Their mission is to produce professional theatre that promotes and celebrates African American history and experience, engages a broad base of patrons and audiences, supports the development of a dynamic group of aspiring artists and builds self-esteem in youth of color.

Here are 10 Additional Facts about Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe:

Fact #1:

Nate Jacobs started the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe as a not-for-profit, 501(c)(3), with five founding members: Apphia Campbell, Jnana Wilson Cooper, Henry Porter II, his sister Tsadok Porter, and Teresa Stanley. Some have become professionals in the field, while others have gone on to different careers. However, when possible, they perform with WBTT for specific events or limited engagements.

Fact #2:

WBTT has grown to become unique in today’s theatre world. We provide a professional platform for gifted minority artists—rising or experienced—to showcase their talents as actors, dancers, singers, musicians, choreographers, directors, and playwrights.

Fact #3:

Troupe members consist of many accomplished artists who have made a significant commitment to WBTT and consider our theatre their home.

Fact #4:

They also include a number of young aspiring performers who, through our mentorship program, have the opportunity to develop their skills alongside the professionals.

Fact #5:

In addition, WBTT invites experienced guest artists from around the country to enhance our productions with their special talents.

Fact #6:

As a member of the Actors’ Equity Association, we hold auditions yearly, but accept resumes throughout the year. We invite any interested artist to contact us.

Fact #7:

WBTT created the Young Artist Program to provide talented young performers an opportunity to showcase their talents on our Main Stage in their own production. The Young Artist Program has featured such WBTT favorites as Ariel Blue (pictured above in her 2016 Young Artist Program), Victoria Byrd, Michael Mendez, Leon Pitts, Neyce Pierre and Earley Dean.

Fact #8:

The artists, that are apart of the Young Artist Program, learn the entire process of show production from finding a band, hiring co-performers if desired, and arranging for lighting and sound assistance to marketing and publicizing their show. Throughout the process they are mentored by Mr. Nate Jacobs and the WBTT production staff.

Fact #9:

In WBTT’s Stage of Discovery summer musical theatre intensive program, a limited number of students ages 13-18 are coached in acting, singing, dancing, and improvisation by creative professionals. They also gain behind-the-scenes experience with set and costume design. The program culminates in a public performance of an exciting musical.

Fact #10:

Each year in February — Black History Month — and continuing in March, Jazzlinks brings songs and stories that explore the history and culture of African Americans to high school classrooms throughout Sarasota County. In 2021 the presentations were virtual due to the coronavirus. They featured videos of musical performances by WBTT artists and interactive discussions with cast members and students. In 2022, schools had the option of hosting an in-person performance or watching a video presentation followed by an interactive discussion via Zoom.

What do you think of this company? If you know of a company that you think should be featured, contact us, and let us know!

About Elizabeth-Jamey Rand

Elizabeth-Jamey Rand is the President/CEO of Oasis Consulting Group, a consulting agency based in Miami Beach, FL that specializes in Business Development, Social Media, Event Planning, Virtual Assistance, Advertising, Real Estate Agent Help, Start-ups, Marketing, and Copywriting. By using an innovative outside of the box thinking approach when it comes to working with their clients, they are able to provide their customers with comprehensive research and everything they may need in order to run their business successfully and smoothly.  To learn more, contact her at (786) 562-7601 or via email at oasisconsulting3@gmail.com.